We are creatures of the mind, and when something happens that damages the brain in some way, the consequences are often far-reaching and unpredictable. Scientists are only being to understand how the brain works, but certainly not to the extent that they can treat or reverse traumatic brain injury (TBI) with any reliability. As pointed out on the website of the Sampson Law Firm in Louisville, in most cases TBI sufferers and their families merely endure and cope with the neurological, economic, and social repercussions as best they can.

TBI often results from sudden impact or trauma that results in a blow to the head or the momentary shifting of the brain within the skull. The severity of TBI ranges from the mild to the catastrophic, but even mild TBI (MTBI) can be problematic. Immediately following a head injury, the following may occur:

Loss of consciousness

Pre- and/or post-traumatic amnesia up to 24 hours

Changes in mental state at the time of the traumatic event

One of the most common MTBI is concussion, some of which resolve on its own with no persistent symptoms but in most cases have long-term consequences. Early symptoms of concussion include:

Disorientation

Headache and dizziness

Nausea

Vomiting

When a patient is discharged after a requisite observation period depending on the severity of the trauma, later symptoms may surface and persist for a long time indicative of neurological damage. These include but not limited to:

Problems with memory

Difficulty in concentrating

Degeneration of skills and competence

Lightheadedness

Low grade headaches

Insomnia

Sensitivity to light and sounds

Chronic fatigue

Depression and anxiety

Irritability

It is not difficult to imagine how hard it is living with the consequences of even MTBI, and sufferers may not even be aware that these are manifestations of concussion because they are not specific to the condition, so they may not get a proper diagnosis. Even MRIs and CT scans will not reveal MTBI; it is only through a reading of the patient’s medical history that the conglomeration of symptoms may point the way to MTBI and the appropriate treatment.

If you have suffered traumatic brain injury even “mild” types in a negligent accident, you should be aware that all may not be well in the long term. Consult with a traumatic brain injury lawyer in your area to advise you on what you need to do to ensure you won’t continue to be a victim of a third party’s negligence.